The 2012 Race Across America starts on Wednesday, June 12. You can follow all the action at the RAAM website:
http://www.raceacrossamerica.org/raam/raamfp.php?N_webcat_id=109
Local rider, Geoff Brunner, a solo-division finisher in 2011, is racing again in 2012. In order to repeat as a finisher again, he'll have to string together four 1200k's in a row and average at least 400k each day. If he wants to reach the podium, he'll have to up that to 500k each day! More info on Geoff s road to RAAM 2012 is posted here:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Geoff-Brunner-Road-to-Race-Across-America-2012/133503426739128
And local rider, George Metzler, is competing in the Race Across the West (RAW) in the 4-man team division. His teammates include Mark Pattinson, the 2nd place solo finisher in 2011 (who George crewed for), along with crew chief Charlie Combs. Team updates will be posted here:
http://roadworx2012raw.tumblr.com/
Mark Pattinson's website is at this link:
http://markpattinson.com/archive
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Saturday, June 9, 2012
PA600k/200k Recap and Limericks
Preliminary results for the PA 600k/200k have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA600k_Results120602.pdf
... Results will become final, pending ACP certification.
The torrential Friday night storms sweeping across Pennsylvania cleared Quakertown about an hour before the start. Given the uncomfortably warm, humid week before then, and the stretch of rainy weather in the forecast for the following week, it was remarkably good fortune to have nearly ideal weather conditions for Saturday's 400k loop. Riders who got an early start on Sunday's 200k loop were rewarded with calm wind on the outbound leg and a brisk tailwind on the return leg. The later starters and 200k riders had to battle those stiff headwinds on the outbound leg, and then had to dodge some isolated thunderstorms later in the afternoon. I can attest that some of these storms were quite intense with torrential rain and sleet. The last finishers managed to reach the finish just minutes ahead of a rather big squall that blew through Quakertown. For the 600k, 18 of the 20 starters were official finishers for a 90% completion rate, and all 9 of the 200k riders make to the finish in good time. Of note, 7 riders completed an Eastern PA SR series of 200k, 300k, 400k, and 600k:
-Dan Barbasch (#2)
-Gavin Biebuyck (#2)
-Bill Fischer (#2)
-Nigel Greene
-Eric Keller (#4)
-Bill Olsen (#4)
-Bob Torres
Also of note, Susan Rodetis and Norman Smeal completed their very first 600k. Congratulations, and well done!
Special thanks to volunteers:
- Bill Olsen (600k preride checkout, overnight controle)
- Andrew Mead (meal preparation, hostel overnight controle)
- Bill Slabonik (200k preride checkout, hostel overnight controle, hostel finish controle, hostel clean-up at the end)
- Len Zawodniak (hostel finish controle, hostel clean-up at the end)
- Keith Spangler (200k preride checkout)
Special thanks to participants who also helped out:
- Paul Murray (hostel setup on Friday)
- Doug Haluza (hostel clean-up at the end)
Without volunteers like these who step-up and answer the call to help out, it just wouldn't be possible to run these events.
Guy Harris writes: "...A big thanks to Bill, Andrew, and William for running the overnight hostel controle and Len for the finish. It was just too comfortable to ride straight through so enjoyed their services for a few hours. What a nice night for riding! Saw the moon set and sun rise as I was heading south on Rt 23. Beautiful calm conditions for that long stretch. Your impeccable organization of the series year after year is very much appreciated..."
Nigel Greene writes: "...What a ride!!! Getting around that course was no easy feat but it was well worth it. Thank you and all of the volunteers for the work you all put in to make it happen. As you know, this was my first PA 600K and it will be an athletic and adventure milestone to remember. The scenery was spectacular and the climbing was a challenge....the request for a limerick made for a fun way to pass some of the time. I ended up composing three of them. I hope you do a post on the message board with all the submissions you received. I bet there are some good ones. Here's one more that I composed somewhere during the night by the side of the road:
Once a man tried to bike to the ocean
drinking only a homemade potion
So imagine his suprise
when he saw with his own eyes
that instead of urine he peed lotion
Nigel's complete ride report has been posted at:http://eprider.blogspot.com/2012/06/pennsylvania-randonneurs-600k-slideshow.html
... and his excellent photo album is here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/sets/72157630043626288/
Nigel's other limerick:
There once was bike ride to Limerick, PA
Getting there would take all day
we started at night
saw many a sight
Just to mail a card we carried the whole way
Norman Smeal writes: "...Another delightful weekend with all of my Randonneuring pals.
I want to thank all of the volunteers for making it an excellent experience. ..."
Paul Scearce, who came up a bit short on his attempt to complete the Eastern PA SR series on a fixed-gear, writes: "...Having my stomach go out once could be a fluke, but twice in a row means I'm doing something wrong. I'm pretty sure it was a pacing problem. I clearly was going at a perfect 300k pace for me. I've enjoyed attempting the series. I plan to try again for a fixed gear PA Randonneurs SR, next year. I hope I've learned enough to complete it. ..."
Paul Murray writes: "...It was a great event and I thoroughly enjoyed it, especially now writing from the luxury of my house. Saturday’s roads went through some beautiful terrain and I was honoured to be riding them. Thanks to you and the volunteers for setting up the event. It went smoothly ..."
There was a lazy man from PA
who enjoyed sleeping all day
til a man named Mike
gave him a bike
Now he spends all his nights, riding brevets
Matt Farrell writes: "...I wanted to send out a big thank you to you and all the volunteers staffing the event. It's always great having fellow riders supporting you at the overnight controls. They seem to know what you need before you do. Two highlight of the ride for me were watching Gavin and Norman reel in the guy on an areo Tri bike on Rt 209 heading towards the Water Gap control and heading off into the moonset on Sunday morning. ..."
Ed Dodd assures me that he is doing better, after taking a couple of tumbles on his way to the overnight controle: "...Please thank Laurent and Mordecai for helping me at the end. It was greatly appreciated and needed. I'm not quite sure what went wrong. Everything seemed to be going well for about 200 miles and then began to fall apart. ..."
Good samaritan Mordecai Silver writes: "...The course was challenging, but I felt it was quite fair, with some long easy stretches to regain time. I ended up riding at the back of the field, taking numerous breaks off the bike besides the controles. I suffered a lot from saddle problems, and spent most of the second day in discomfort when I was seated. Still, I never felt any time pressure, though I left the hostel Sunday morning later than almost everyone else. For me, the hardest point in the ride was the 25 miles before Bloomsbury. I was feeling very tired, and I was very grateful for Laurent's company on that stretch. I had some coffee at Citgo, and once we crossed the Delaware, my energy returned and I felt much better for the climb up to the hostel. It was my first time riding through Amish country, and I especially enjoyed the little farm lanes after New Holland. But by then the sun was starting to beat down on me, and I was dragging a bit. My energy picked up again when we turned into the shaded roads around French Creek State Park. One thing I noticed about the drivers in Amish country is that they're pretty polite, being used to sharing the roads with horse-drawn carriages. On some of the roads before Limerick, it was a very different experience. ... It was a relief to get back to quieter roads for the last thirty miles. Many thanks for all your hard work that went into making this such a well-run and enjoyable event. And congratulations on running another successful SR series. And thanks also to Bill, Bill, Andrew, and Len. I enjoyed the oatmeal with blueberries and Stonyfield yogurt for breakfast. It's the kind of light, mild food that I prefer before I head out for a ride. And I liked the baked ziti for supper.Hope to see you for another event soon. ..."
The cyclist his weary way wends
Then a postcard he dutifully sends
Sure his body he's taxin'
Just observe the lack-o'-wax-in
The candle he's burnt at both ends!
Larry Midura writes: "...Thanks for all your hard work organizing this past weekend's brevets....I was glad to be asleep in my motel room when the wind and rain hit hard late Sunday PM & early evening - the wind/rain was downright nasty in Quakertown in the evening....We were lucky the stomy weather came late in the day!...Truly enjoyed the little changes you incorporated into the second leg of the 600K - especially using the Harmonyville/Hopewell Road detour - a good change of pace from the usual inbound route near French Creek State Park - the slightly different scenery/roads were good. Your pasta salad, and Andrew's ziti and Italian meatballs hit the spot for a light meal after the brevet - superb! ....Hope to join your group of riders again next year for a brevet or two next year.
Thanks for letting me be a part of your PA randonnee riders for the 2012 Fleche & 600K - both events had fantastic weather as well as great fellow riders to share the roads with at times. You made it possible for me to earn the RUSA Cup by connecting me with Walter and his Southern Jersey Fleche Team - that was a great 24 hours on the roads of Jersey. ..."
In the hunt for another CAN-AM Challenge, Larry plans to the ride the Rocky Mountain 1200 and Taste of Carolina 1200k this summer.
Eastern PA SR finisher, Bill Fischer writes: "...Thanks for another fantastic 600k. The weather couldn’t have been better and the course was beautiful.
Nearly 30 randonneurs did Tom welcome
to attempt a 600k is done seldom
since the hills are so steep
some called Tom a big bleep
but we’re thankful there’s no turn onto buckwampum
Dan Aaron's Limerick:
I rode with a rider named Susan
on a 600k, we were cruisin'
she said "not too fast"
as she rode in my draft
so we pedaled at the pace of her choosin'
Susan Rodetis' limerick
Tom sent me out into the night
My First 600! gosh, a fright
But now I know
Go with the flow
And it shall be fun and alright
Eastern PA SR, and first finisher Gavin Biebuyck's Limerick:
There once was an old man from Reading
who liked to ride his Masi
He rode all day
He rode all night
Until he didn't know which way he was heading.
Laurent Chambard's Limerick:
I bought myself a Brooks Saddle
that was sold by a guy with "retro" stamped across his chest
If you give it a good oiling, and beat it with a rolling pin,
it will be as smooth as crushed velvet
(Did my eye notice a grin?)
Tony Colasurdo's limerick:
There once was a man from the valley
while on a 200k, he drank like a Sally
The next day
they found him dead
in an alley
Doug Haluza set a new personal best by getting his first mechanical (a flat tire) within the first mile of the start. Thankfully, that was the only one for the day.
There once was man from Ghent
who rode his bike for so long, his back got a bent
It gave him so much trouble
to be doubled over
that he decided next time, a car he would rent..
Eastern PA SR Eric Keller's limerick:
A cyclist went for a ride
It lasted so long, he cried
It's called randonneuring
by day, a sport dashing and daring
But in a ditch is where he sleeps soundly all night.
And Eric added this one, later on:
There was a football coach from Lemont*
who said, "I'll turn boys in to men,
just you watch"
Don't be a ninny
It's ok if you're winning
"go team!"
means we do what we want.
*for some reason they always say that Sandusky lives in Boalsburg, but his property borders on the Lemont Elementary grounds
Bob Torres' limerick
An elderly bride of Port Jervis
Was quite understandably nervous
Since her apple-cheeked groom
with three wives in the tomb
started insuring her during the service.
Bill Olsen's limerick
There once was a biker named Willy
Who did not want a limerick too silly
But his mind was fried
from too much of a ride
and the limerick ended up willy-nilly
This concludes the Eastern PA spring calender of events -- it certainly has been a busy 11 weeks, with an event every other week -- whew!!! The summer calender of events kicks off with the Hawk's Nest 200k on July 14th. And since this is an ideal warm weather course, we'll be running it again in August. For those of you looking for a truly epic challenge, the Endless Mountains 1000k will be run on August 17th-19th.
-Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Mark Sheehan
I received sad news about the passing of Mark Sheehan, a long-time participant with Pennsylvania Randonneurs.
Calling hours are planned for next Saturday, June 9, at McInerny Funeral Home in Elmira:
http://mcinernyfh.com/
Viewing is 2-5:15, memorial service @5:30
Obituaries have been posted here:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/star-gazette/obituary.aspx?n=mark-l-sheehan&pid=157954346
... and here:
http://mcinernyfh.com/Mark%20L.%20Sheehan.html
The following was forwarded to me from Crista Borras, who writes:
"I'm sorry to be the messenger of some very sad news. Mark Sheehan, an accomplished randonneur from Elmira, New York with whom many of you have ridden and shared hours of good companionship on our local brevets in past years, collapsed and died during a group bike ride in Florida a couple of days ago. Julie Riplinger forwarded this note from Bill Lodico. I don't have any additional information as of now but will forward any that I do receive. I know that all of us who knew Mark feel a deep sense of loss. "
-Crista Borras
**** Remembrance From Bill Lodico: *****
As some of you may know by now, we lost one of our best yesterday.
Mark was doing what he liked to do most, riding his bike, when he stopped, got off the bike and fell to the ground. I don't know precisely what happened, but by my understanding it was heart-related and was over very quickly, before he hit the ground.
It's hard to believe that something like this could happen to a cyclist who has racked up as many long, hard miles as Mark: three PBP's, who knows how many BMB's, numerous Quadzillas, countless brevets, not to mention a pretty fair allotment of Diners Club centuries. In his last email to me a couple weeks ago, he was complaining about his form on the bike, but it had been good enough to let him rack up 3000 miles for the year by mid May.
Many of you have shared long rides with Mark, and you remember his steady, no nonsense approach to covering the miles. His approach to friendship was very much like that. No nonsense about it, and you could count on him when you needed him. His steadiness was leavened by a sense of humor perfectly fitted to the long efforts associated with randonneuring: subtle, understated, and economical. HIs version of a belly laugh was an upturning at the corners of his mouth, a sidelong glance, and a twinkle in his eye. I don't think I ever managed to get him to laugh outright; and when I complained about it, he told me I just wasn't funny enough. He, on the other hand, got me laughing plenty of times.
There's no way to know why something like this had to happen to Mark, to his family, or to us. What I do know is that I am happy and grateful to have had him as a friend.
-Bill Lodico
**** Remembrance From Rick Carpenter: *****
During my first ever 600, I found myself off solo winding my way up the lonely desolate Lackawaxen stretch towards Wallenpaupack, literally nodding off and on while pedaling through the silent afternoon heat. On this stretch Mark stealthily approached alone & unnoticed to me. I'll never forget him belting out "For a Fast Guy, you ride pretty damn slow!", abruptly startling me into full vigor. Mark and I continued on together and reached the Youth Hostel around 22:45 that evening as the heavens opened and the downpours began. While my pals Joe, George, and John were already in, showered, and on their way to getting a few hours shut eye, you informed Mark & me that Pavelka was already back out on the course. With me already nervous about completing my SR for PBP qualification, that was the spark needed to send the both of us immediately back out into the rain without even touching our drop bags for a change of kit. I was so thankful and relieved to have the company of Mark alongside as we re-entered into the expanse of that dark, wet night in hopes of catching Ed. Such good memories that I'll always keep and treasure, thanks to Mark's camaraderie.
- Rick Carpenter
*** Remembrance From Guy Harris ***
I first met Mark on the 2010 edition of the PA1000K that he rode and for which I was a support volunteer doing the course sweep. I was in Carbondale at the Dunkin Donuts controle checking in riders before the last leg of the day to a sleep stop in Halstead. Mark was the last one in, somewhere around midnight, and riding alone. He was obviously hurting and since I didn't know him I was a bit concerned. That concern quickly faded after speaking with him for just a few minutes. Clearly this was rider I needed to have no concerns for, a big relief after the events of that day. He had been there before and was not only riding well within his abilities but having a great time.
- Guy Harris
This is sad news. I met Mark on my first Quadzilla and rode some of those miles with him. I think we end up riding three QZs together. I also rode many miles with him on a few BMBs. I looked forward to seeing him on events and passing the time with his wonderful wit and humor. He will be missed by many.
-Russ
SHEEHAN, Mark L | Big Horn Velo | 932011
Calling hours are planned for next Saturday, June 9, at McInerny Funeral Home in Elmira:
http://mcinernyfh.com/
Viewing is 2-5:15, memorial service @5:30
Obituaries have been posted here:
http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/star-gazette/obituary.aspx?n=mark-l-sheehan&pid=157954346
... and here:
http://mcinernyfh.com/Mark%20L.%20Sheehan.html
The following was forwarded to me from Crista Borras, who writes:
"I'm sorry to be the messenger of some very sad news. Mark Sheehan, an accomplished randonneur from Elmira, New York with whom many of you have ridden and shared hours of good companionship on our local brevets in past years, collapsed and died during a group bike ride in Florida a couple of days ago. Julie Riplinger forwarded this note from Bill Lodico. I don't have any additional information as of now but will forward any that I do receive. I know that all of us who knew Mark feel a deep sense of loss. "
-Crista Borras
**** Remembrance From Bill Lodico: *****
As some of you may know by now, we lost one of our best yesterday.
Mark was doing what he liked to do most, riding his bike, when he stopped, got off the bike and fell to the ground. I don't know precisely what happened, but by my understanding it was heart-related and was over very quickly, before he hit the ground.
It's hard to believe that something like this could happen to a cyclist who has racked up as many long, hard miles as Mark: three PBP's, who knows how many BMB's, numerous Quadzillas, countless brevets, not to mention a pretty fair allotment of Diners Club centuries. In his last email to me a couple weeks ago, he was complaining about his form on the bike, but it had been good enough to let him rack up 3000 miles for the year by mid May.
Many of you have shared long rides with Mark, and you remember his steady, no nonsense approach to covering the miles. His approach to friendship was very much like that. No nonsense about it, and you could count on him when you needed him. His steadiness was leavened by a sense of humor perfectly fitted to the long efforts associated with randonneuring: subtle, understated, and economical. HIs version of a belly laugh was an upturning at the corners of his mouth, a sidelong glance, and a twinkle in his eye. I don't think I ever managed to get him to laugh outright; and when I complained about it, he told me I just wasn't funny enough. He, on the other hand, got me laughing plenty of times.
There's no way to know why something like this had to happen to Mark, to his family, or to us. What I do know is that I am happy and grateful to have had him as a friend.
-Bill Lodico
**** Remembrance From Rick Carpenter: *****
During my first ever 600, I found myself off solo winding my way up the lonely desolate Lackawaxen stretch towards Wallenpaupack, literally nodding off and on while pedaling through the silent afternoon heat. On this stretch Mark stealthily approached alone & unnoticed to me. I'll never forget him belting out "For a Fast Guy, you ride pretty damn slow!", abruptly startling me into full vigor. Mark and I continued on together and reached the Youth Hostel around 22:45 that evening as the heavens opened and the downpours began. While my pals Joe, George, and John were already in, showered, and on their way to getting a few hours shut eye, you informed Mark & me that Pavelka was already back out on the course. With me already nervous about completing my SR for PBP qualification, that was the spark needed to send the both of us immediately back out into the rain without even touching our drop bags for a change of kit. I was so thankful and relieved to have the company of Mark alongside as we re-entered into the expanse of that dark, wet night in hopes of catching Ed. Such good memories that I'll always keep and treasure, thanks to Mark's camaraderie.
- Rick Carpenter
*** Remembrance From Guy Harris ***
I first met Mark on the 2010 edition of the PA1000K that he rode and for which I was a support volunteer doing the course sweep. I was in Carbondale at the Dunkin Donuts controle checking in riders before the last leg of the day to a sleep stop in Halstead. Mark was the last one in, somewhere around midnight, and riding alone. He was obviously hurting and since I didn't know him I was a bit concerned. That concern quickly faded after speaking with him for just a few minutes. Clearly this was rider I needed to have no concerns for, a big relief after the events of that day. He had been there before and was not only riding well within his abilities but having a great time.
- Guy Harris
*** Remembrance From Jim Reed ***
At this link:
http://www.zifflaw.com/NYBikeAccidentBlog/a-riding-friend-who-will-be-missed/
.... and comments:
http://www.zifflaw.com/NYBikeAccidentBlog/a-riding-friend-who-will-be-missed/#comments
***Rememberance from Russ Loomis ***At this link:
http://www.zifflaw.com/NYBikeAccidentBlog/a-riding-friend-who-will-be-missed/
.... and comments:
http://www.zifflaw.com/NYBikeAccidentBlog/a-riding-friend-who-will-be-missed/#comments
This is sad news. I met Mark on my first Quadzilla and rode some of those miles with him. I think we end up riding three QZs together. I also rode many miles with him on a few BMBs. I looked forward to seeing him on events and passing the time with his wonderful wit and humor. He will be missed by many.
-Russ
SHEEHAN, Mark L | Big Horn Velo | 932011
| Cert No. | Type | Km | Date | Organizing Club or Permanent Route | Time | Medal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | annual total=200 km | |||||
| 349573 | ACPB | 200 | 2012/03/12 | Hell Week Randonneurs / 943037 | 11:15 | |
| 2011 | ACP SR, annual total=2107 km | |||||
| 326782 | ACPB | 200 | 2011/03/14 | Hell Week Randonneurs / 943037 | 10:49 | |
| 118384 | ACPB | 300 | 2011/03/18 | Hell Week Randonneurs / 943037 | 19:22 | |
| 82505 | ACPB | 400 | 2011/05/28 | New Jersey Randonneurs / 930029 | 20:53 | |
| 62999 | ACPB | 600 | 2011/06/10 | New Jersey Randonneurs / 930029 | 36:40 | |
| RUSA-T16216 | RUSAT | 204 | 2011/06/18 | NY: Steuben 200K / 920 | 10:30 | |
| RUSA-T16890 | RUSAT | 200 | 2011/07/06 | NC: Tar Heel 200 / 589 | 08:52 | |
| RUSA-T16909 | RUSAT | 203 | 2011/07/17 | NY: Canandaigua 200K / 1003 | 11:15 | |
| 2010 | ACP SR, annual total=3060 km | |||||
| RUSA-B05557 | RUSAB | 200 | 2010/02/20 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 10:14 | |
| 297866 | ACPB | 200 | 2010/03/27 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 10:05 | |
| 108919 | ACPB | 300 | 2010/04/17 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 14:15 | |
| 72451 | ACPB | 400 | 2010/05/01 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 26:20 | |
| US-2010-314 | ACPF | min 360 actual 380 | 2010/05/14 | Rochester Bicycling Club / 932030 | 24:00 | |
| 6828 | ACPB | 1000 | 2010/08/26 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 72:45 | Y |
| 59150 | ACPB | 600 | 2010/09/04 | Bicycle For Life Club / 933057 | 33:59 | |
| 2009 | annual total=660 km | |||||
| 103952 | ACPB | 300 | 2009/05/02 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 14:05 | |
| US-2009-9165 | ACPF | min 360 actual 422 | 2009/05/14 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 24:00 | |
| 2008 | annual total=2260 km | |||||
| RUSA-B02305 | RUSAB | 200 | 2008/01/12 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 10:24 | |
| 96506 | ACPB | 300 | 2008/02/02 | Central Florida Randonneurs / 909062 | 12:45 | |
| RUSA-B02324 | RUSAB | 200 | 2008/02/23 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 11:34 | |
| 65720 | ACPB | 400 | 2008/03/08 | Gainesville Cycling Club / 909005 | 19:04 | |
| 266552 | ACPB | 200 | 2008/03/30 | Upstate NY Brevet Series / 932034 | 09:37 | |
| 267187 | ACPB | 200 | 2008/04/19 | New Jersey Randonneurs / 930029 | 10:27 | |
| US-2008-8173 | ACPF | min 360 actual 365 | 2008/04/24 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 24:00 | |
| 66167 | ACPB | 400 | 2008/05/03 | Randonneurs of the Mid-Atlantic / 946013 | 23:53 | |
| 2007 | ACP SR, annual total=2505 km | |||||
| 254186 | ACPB | 200 | 2007/03/25 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 08:50 | |
| 91260 | ACPB | 300 | 2007/04/01 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 13:40 | |
| US-2007-7079 | ACPF | min 360 actual 402 | 2007/04/19 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 24:00 | |
| 59539 | ACPB | 400 | 2007/05/05 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 20:21 | |
| 43238 | ACPB | 600 | 2007/05/19 | Pennsylvania Randonneurs / 938017 | 31:24 | |
| RUSA-B01724 | RUSAB | 645 | 2007/07/14 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 37:55 | |
| 2006 | ACP SR, annual total=1860 km | |||||
| 237779 | ACPB | 200 | 2006/04/29 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 09:24 | |
| US-2006-6135 | ACPF | min 360 actual 423 | 2006/05/06 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 24:00 | |
| 84693 | ACPB | 300 | 2006/05/13 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 12:20 | Y |
| 56427 | ACPB | 400 | 2006/06/03 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 21:30 | |
| 41399 | ACPB | 600 | 2006/07/08 | Boston Brevet Series / 921030 | 35:07 | |
| 2005 | ACP SR, annual total=3660 km | |||||
| 229040 | ACPB | 200 | 2005/04/09 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 09:00 | |
| US-2005-5084 | ACPF | min 360 actual 412 | 2005/04/16 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 24:00 | |
| 81418 | ACPB | 300 | 2005/05/07 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 15:14 | Y |
| 54389 | ACPB | 400 | 2005/05/21 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 17:45 | |
| 39843 | ACPB | 600 | 2005/06/11 | DC Randonneurs / 946012 | 31:44 | |
| 40187 | ACPB | 600 | 2005/07/09 | Boston Brevet Series / 921030 | 31:10 | |
| US-2062 | RM | 1200 | 2005/08/18 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 74:55 | |
| 2004 | ACP SR, annual total=3060 km | |||||
| 218658 | ACPB | 200 | 2004/04/24 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 07:56 | Y |
| 79137 | ACPB | 300 | 2004/05/08 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 12:09 | Y |
| US-2004-138 | ACPF | min 360 actual 423 | 2004/05/22 | Northeast Sport Cyclists / 921033 | 24:00 | |
| 53226 | ACPB | 400 | 2004/06/12 | Boston Brevet Series / 921030 | 18:13 | Y |
| 38975 | ACPB | 600 | 2004/06/26 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 28:35 | Y |
| 4420 | ACPB | 1000 | 2004/08/19 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 58:28 | Y |
| 225267 | ACPB | 200 | 2004/08/22 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 10:13 | Y |
| 2003 | ACP SR, annual total=1860 km | |||||
| 206614 | ACPB | 200 | 2003/04/12 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 09:47 | Y |
| US-2003-061 | ACPF | min 360 actual 386 | 2003/04/19 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 24:00 | |
| 72368 | ACPB | 300 | 2003/05/03 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 13:49 | Y |
| 48779 | ACPB | 400 | 2003/05/17 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 18:38 | Y |
| 37477 | ACPB | 600 | 2003/06/07 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 30:10 | Y |
| 2002 | ACP SR, annual total=3260 km | |||||
| US-2002-50 | ACPF | min 360 actual 372 | 2002/03/30 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 24:00 | |
| 195993 | ACPB | 200 | 2002/04/13 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 08:31 | Y |
| 196053 | ACPB | 200 | 2002/05/04 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 08:55 | Y |
| 68757 | ACPB | 300 | 2002/05/18 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 17:15 | Y |
| 45947 | ACPB | 400 | 2002/06/22 | Onondaga Cycling Club / 932027 | 17:45 | Y |
| 33168 | ACPB | 600 | 2002/07/20 | Rochester Bicycling Club / 932030 | 35:49 | |
| US1601 | RM | 1200 | 2002/08/22 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 82:53 | |
| 2001 | ACP SR, annual total=3700 km | |||||
| 191307 | ACPB | 200 | 2001/04/21 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 08:52 | Y |
| 67425 | ACPB | 300 | 2001/05/05 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 13:50 | Y |
| 44581 | ACPB | 400 | 2001/05/19 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 18:27 | Y |
| 32109 | ACPB | 600 | 2001/06/09 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 30:16 | Y |
| 3650 | ACPB | 1000 | 2001/07/01 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 64:30 | Y |
| US1182 | RM | 1200 | 2001/08/16 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 81:26 | |
| 2000 | ACP SR, annual total=2700 km | |||||
| 184710 | ACPB | 200 | 2000/04/15 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 10:00 | Y |
| 65673 | ACPB | 300 | 2000/05/06 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 15:41 | Y |
| 43662 | ACPB | 400 | 2000/06/24 | Boston Brevet Series / 921030 | 20:09 | Y |
| 31561 | ACPB | 600 | 2000/07/22 | Rochester Bicycling Club / 932030 | 39:44 | |
| US1011 | RM | 1200 | 2000/08/17 | Boston Montreal Boston / 921003 | 69:49 | |
| 1999 | annual total=300 km | |||||
| 59613 | ACPB | 300 | 1999/05/01 | Potomac Pedalers Touring Club / 920010 | 14:20 | |
| Grand Total | 31192 kms | |||||
Thursday, May 31, 2012
PA600k/200k
*** Update 1 (5/31/12) ***
Volunteer prerides for both the 600k (Bill Olsen) and the 200k (Bill Slabonik and Keith Spangler) were recently completed. Bill and Keith rode in what must have felt like a hot sauna on Tuesday, getting in just ahead of the big storm that blew though that evening. Bill Olsen also played hide and seek with several big storms on his preride last wednesday. The current cuesheets are:
600k: Draft 5 dated 5/25/12
200k: Draft 2 dated 5/26/12
Some additional course notes:
-Due to poor road conditions, a route tweek was incorporated into the current cuesheet after Controle 4 (keeping you on Rt 390 to Hawley)
-Mile 233.0: This is an unmarked turn and the spotting cue at mile 232.7 for Coon Hollow road is also now unmarked. However, the turn will be at the first stop sign you encounter when you turn onto Lehnenberg Rd.
-Controle 9 is a post card controle at the Limerick Post Office. You'll be given a stamped post card at the start to drop in the mailbox there, but of course, I'll be expecting some good limericks to be written on the card before you mail it. You should also note that post card controles are not timed -- in other words, you don't need to reach controle 9 before the listed closing time. Since this is the first controle after the overnight sleep stop, you have until controle 10 to catch-up on the time limit, if you get a late/slow start after sleeping in at the hostel. There's also a good 24-hr diner near the post office (as noted on the cuesheet). This would be a good place to stop for breakfast.
-Controle 10 (a Sheetz mini-mart in New Holland) will be open for all drinks and packaged snack/food items but is undergoing renovations. The kitchen will be closed, hot food items, sandwiches to order and such will not be available. There is a Wendy's, a McDonalds, and a Subway restaurant just a short distance west of the Sheetz Controlle on the south side of route 23. There is also Palermos Pizza on the north side of route 23 as you approach the Controle. There are also many good options in Morgantown, but Bill Olsen reports that "...the McD's in Morgantown is undergoing a major McRenovation and does not currently exist. If folks are counting on this one they'll need to hit the King's place just before Morgantown on Rt.23..."
-Mile 359.1/114.6: The stone arch bridge just before this turn is under construction and signed as closed to traffic, but is passable if you dismount and walk across.
Parking: use the big parking lot, off to your right half way down the long driveway to the hostel. Be sure to keep your car on the gravel surface -- it's easy to get your car stuck on the grassy areas. The couple of parking spots at the hostel are reserved.
Additional info on hostel procedures are at the end of this link:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/WhatToExpect.pdf
Cell phone coverage is essentially non-existent at the hostel -- use the hostel number listed on the cuesheet if you need to reach someone there. The front door of the hostel may be locked during the day on Saturday, but the back kitchen door will be open, if for some reason, you need to get inside at that time.
Hopefully, the rain in the forecast for Friday night into Saturday morning will clear out quickly.
And most importantly, Have a safe ride!
-Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Blue Mountain 400k Preliminary Results & Report
Preliminary results for the Blue Mountain 400k have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA400k_Results120519.pdf
... results will be final, pending ACP certification.
The first warm day of the season certainly made it a bit harder for those of us not acclimated just yet. But the dry conditions and clear skies really showed off the spectacular views along the ridges. For those of you who were looking for a challenging ride, I trust you were not disappointed! 29 of the 33 starters were official finishers for a 88% completion. Of note Michelle Hughes and Susan Rodetis completed their first 400k -- Well Done! Also of note, Bill Arcieri finished with just 12 minutes to spare. Bill writes: "...It was an interesting ride and I enjoyed it. Scenery was gorgeous. I also learned a couple of thing about PA farmers -- didn't know they work at night, for example. ..."
Nigel Greene writes: "...I just wanted to say a big THANKS to you and all the volunteers for putting on such a well run and memorable event. This was a truly beautiful course. I only wish I was a better photographer to better convey that. My attempts seem less than worthy. But, I guess one of the perks of doing the ride is getting to see it first hand and there is no substitute. [Yes, I suppose that photos can't really substitute first-hand experience -- but I'd have to say that some of your shots come real close! -Tom R.] Each of the volunteers was cheerful and helpful. Seeing each one was like meeting up with a friend. I am a bit tired but its a good tired. The kind that comes from doing something hard but worthwhile. P.S. Please send a special thanks to Rick Carpenter for me. Riding with him was a really great experience....I look forward to the next event. ..."
Once again, Nigel has captured a number of really great photos, which have been posted at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/sets/72157629812234658
I really liked this one in particular:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/7233106886/in/set-72157629812234658
Nigel has also posted an excellent write-up at:
http://eprider.blogspot.com/2012/05/pa-randonneurs-blue-mountain-400k.html
Rick Carpenter, up visiting from his new home base in N.C., writes: "...Tom and Andrew, This is by far one of my favorite routes of all, made possible through your collaborative efforts. Truly remarkable and breathtaking. Here our some photos taken while traveling with my ride companion Nigel Greene; what an excellent time we had! ..."
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rick_carpenter/sets/72157629821769412/
[Thanks Rick -- pretty high praise from someone who's seen a lot of different areas! -Tom R.]
Bill Olsen, who usually is on the giving end of helping out with on-road bike repairs, had some good karma come back his way in the form of spare spoke. Bill writes: "..Tom - Thanks for another great 400K! It is always a pleasure to ride along the ridges along the Blue Mountains between the 2nd and 4th controles. Although Gavin had no reason to carry the spoke in bag for a wheel he wasn't riding I was happy he admitted to being to "lazy" to have taken out when he was packing up on Friday night as it was just the size I needed for the one I broke just before Blondies and made the wheel "good as new." Much better than an emergency repair using the fiberspoke I had with me..."
Guy Harris writes: "...Thanks to all the volunteers for helping to provide a great ride. The New Ringgold to Jonestown portion is a good one - saw a bald eagle on Summer Hill Road in addition to the great views in the clear weather yesterday. The route from Limerick back to hostel really works well..." [Yes, after trying many different routing options in this densely populated area, the current route seems to be working out the best. -Tom R]
Paul Scearce, looking to be the first to complete an Eastern PA SR series on a fixed gear, unfortunately came up a bit short. Paul was one of two riders to check into a hotel along the way. Paul writes: "...I really enjoyed the course you came up with. I thought it was less challenging than when I rode it in '10. At the same time it was quite scenic and, I think there was less traffic. I'm not discouraged about the DNF. .... I also figure it isn't a challenge if success is a foregone conclusion. With any luck, I'll see you in about 2 weeks for the 600k. ..." [On the 2010 edition, it was much hotter and very humid. -Tom R.]
Len Zawodniak writes: "..Tom, tough course yesterday! I'm still recovering... Andrew [Mead] was right about the section following his controle, death by a thousand little climbs- or something like that. I should have video from the crossing into Easton, we were like a small army tromping across that bridge! Thanks for getting the event set up so well. I took some photos early in the day:. ..."
http://www.flickr.com/photos/68154149@N03/sets/72157629820621214/
Joe Fillip writes: "...While the weather for the 400 Km wasn't hot in absolute terms, it sure was relatively speaking, given the long stretches of cool spring weather we've enjoyed this year. It was really a struggle to keep adequately hydrated on Saturday during the stretch from New Ringgold to Browntown, which coincides with the most challenging terrain on the route. I'm glad I finished, although I have to confess I felt a bit shattered on Sunday. For all of that, it's an absolutely beautiful course, and it was (per your usual) an incredibly well run event. Thanks to you and to all of the volunteers for making it possible...."
Ed Dodd writes: "...Thanks to you and all the volunteers once again for a great event. I intend to ride the 600K and hope you can secure the same near perfect weather as you have for the last three brevets. ..."
Joe Brown writes: "..Hopefully the 600 will be a bit more cloudy and less hot than the 400 but I won't hold my breath. The 400 was a beautiful course. ..."
Greg Conderacci, one of the three DC-area randonneurs clipping-in writes: "..Another Classic! What a strange, beautiful and challenging ride! Don't know how you managed to keep us almost traffic-free for 250 miles, but you did it. Super scenery: quaint Amish farms, meandering brooks, verdant hills, shady back roads. And perfect PA weather to boot! Many thanks!. ..."
Fellow DC Randonneur and Greg's riding partner, Andrea Matney writes: "..., loved the ride! The ride was masterfully routed and kept us from busy roads down wiggly, squiggly roads. Side effect -- felt like we were riding in circles. Blue skies, low wind, gorgeous views, purple and white flowering bushes, fields of buttercups, tapestry fields, layers of mountain scape, and more. We had every flavor of smell during the course. Many Mennonites and many of their farm animals, so lots of country air. . ... "
If you have any other photo albums or comments to share, please forward them to me, and I'll include them in the ride report for the PA Message board.
Special thanks to volunteers:
- Norman Smeal (preride checkout, course sweep at Limerick, and RBA rescue)
- Andrew Mead (course sweep at Brownstown, and the routing between New Ringgold and Jonestown -- how about those views of Blue Mountain and Second Mountain along Summer Hill Rd)
- Chris Nadovich (hostel setup and check-in)
- Glenn Ammons (hostel finish and post-ride meal)
- Christine Newman (hostel finish and hostel clean-up)
- Chris Roth (on-call for emergencies -- thankfully, not needed)
Next up, is the PA600 on June 2 and the New Holland 200k on June 3. The 200k starts on day 2 of the 600k, and follows the same out and back course to New Holland. PA600k Event details and the roster have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA600K.html
New Holland 200k event details have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/R12ClubJun2.html
Please send me a note by Thursday, May 31st, if you want to be added to the roster. Be sure to include the course you'd like to ride, and any hostel reservations you'd like to make. And as always, please monitor the website and message board for the latest updates.
Regards,
-Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
Monday, May 14, 2012
Blue Mountain 400k
*** Update 2 (5/16/12) ***
The cuesheet has been updated to draft 11, dated 5/16/12 with:
- (Mile 202.4) a detour for the Harmonyville Rd bridge that is under construction
- several other minor clarifications
Some additional notes from the preride, compliments of volunteer Norman Smeal (who completed a 300k warm-up on Saturday, before his 400k checkout on Sunday):
68.4 - The sign for West Bowman Rd was present for the pre-ride.
74.0 - Ben Salem Rd was not marked. The Andreas 4 spotting cue identifies the turn.
77.9 - The BL onto Pine Hill is the middle option at this intersection. Cold Spring continues straight and Andreas is the hard left.
111.9 - You are headed toward a closed bridge that is partially blocked with earthen mounds. It is passible by bike. Wild Cherry Rd is on the far side of the bridge.
114.8 - Fox Rd is unmarked. It is a TL intersection.
118.8 - There is a Turkey Hill about 0.1m off course to the right in Pine Grove.
119.1 - Parallel Rd is unmarked. It is the 2nd R after crossing Rt 443. It's more of a bear right.
164.0 - The sign for Clay Rd on the QR side of the intersection is missing. This is a TL+QR where Clay zig-zags across SR 322.
204 - The bridge on Harmonyville Rd remains closed for construction. A bypass will be posted in an update once it is confirmed.
231.8 - The small stone bridge on Swamp Creek Rd remains under construction. It is still passible by bike.
*** Update 1 (5/14/12) ***
A volunteer preride was completed on Monday. There are a couple of bridges that are out and some other minor cuesheet issues that will necessitate a cuesheet update. Another update will be posted later in the week, so be sure to check back on the website for a complete preride report from Normal Smeal and an updated cuesheet.
-Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
The cuesheet has been updated to draft 11, dated 5/16/12 with:
- (Mile 202.4) a detour for the Harmonyville Rd bridge that is under construction
- several other minor clarifications
Some additional notes from the preride, compliments of volunteer Norman Smeal (who completed a 300k warm-up on Saturday, before his 400k checkout on Sunday):
68.4 - The sign for West Bowman Rd was present for the pre-ride.
74.0 - Ben Salem Rd was not marked. The Andreas 4 spotting cue identifies the turn.
77.9 - The BL onto Pine Hill is the middle option at this intersection. Cold Spring continues straight and Andreas is the hard left.
111.9 - You are headed toward a closed bridge that is partially blocked with earthen mounds. It is passible by bike. Wild Cherry Rd is on the far side of the bridge.
114.8 - Fox Rd is unmarked. It is a TL intersection.
118.8 - There is a Turkey Hill about 0.1m off course to the right in Pine Grove.
119.1 - Parallel Rd is unmarked. It is the 2nd R after crossing Rt 443. It's more of a bear right.
164.0 - The sign for Clay Rd on the QR side of the intersection is missing. This is a TL+QR where Clay zig-zags across SR 322.
204 - The bridge on Harmonyville Rd remains closed for construction. A bypass will be posted in an update once it is confirmed.
231.8 - The small stone bridge on Swamp Creek Rd remains under construction. It is still passible by bike.
*** Update 1 (5/14/12) ***
A volunteer preride was completed on Monday. There are a couple of bridges that are out and some other minor cuesheet issues that will necessitate a cuesheet update. Another update will be posted later in the week, so be sure to check back on the website for a complete preride report from Normal Smeal and an updated cuesheet.
-Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
Monday, May 7, 2012
Water Gap 200k / 300k Preliminary Results and Report
Preliminary results for the Water Gap 200k / 300k have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA300k_Results120505.pdf
... please let me know of any corrections or other issues. Results will be submitted to RUSA shortly, and become final, pending RUSA/ACP approval.
The weather pattern for the past week had befuddled the forecasters, and Saturday was no exception to this trend. The early morning showers in the forecast never materialized, and the mostly sunny forecast yielded to a day that was mostly overcast. And seemingly out of nowhere, an isolated downpour in Rieglesville drenched the final finisher. But there could hardly be any complaints about the nearly ideal weather for a full day in the saddle: temperatures at the start were around 60F, and topped out in the mid 70F's.
There were 30 starters for the 300k and 28 finishers; all 3 starters for the 200k finished. Dan Aaron experienced a perplexing mechanical issue with his chain, which kept falling off. Fellow randonneurs Paul Searce and Mordecai Silver both stopped to lend a hand, but could find no obvious problems. So sadly, Dan and his riding partner Susan brevet was done. Dan sent me this follow-up note: "...Thanks for your help yesterday. Thanks also to Mordecai and Paul for helping me out on the road. Turned out that meeting you at the next Controle, then getting back via the 200K route really wasn't practical as my chain was dropping every two minutes. It would have taken us hours just to cover the remaining 15 miles to the next Controle. After I spoke with you on the phone, I found a bike shop one block away. It was a relatively low end shop primarily handling mountain bikes. There were a couple of road bikes in the shop, and had I thought of it sooner I could have rented one of the road bikes and still finished the ride on time.The owner/mechanic couldn't fix my de-chaining problem but suspected it was due to a worn chain ring. I dropped the bike off at my local LBS this morning. The mechanic confirmed that my chain ring was worn and that the worn ring was probably causing my de-chaining problem. Susan and I called a taxi to transport us back to Quakertown. The dispatcher said that the fare would be about $130, and he would not be able to fit the bikes in the cab. This meant that I would have to take the taxi to Quakertown and then drive back in my car to pick up Susan and the bikes. As luck would have it, we ran into a group of cyclists on a local club ride. Several of them offered to drive us and our bikes back to the hostel. Needles to say, we cancelled the taxi. Cyclists always seem to have that "pay it forward" attitude toward other cyclists...."
Fred Collins, Michelle Hughes, Chris Knight, Gary Mass, David Pawlyk, and Chris Roth completed their first 300k. Of note, Michelle, was on her second brevet ever as well, having just recently finished the NJ200k. I wonder if her next two rides will be a 400k and 600k? Congratulations to each of them for reaching this milestone. Chris Knight writes: "...AWESOME AGAIN TOM. You and your group amaze me. The whole club amazes me. I thought I'd try to give PA-Randonneurs a little visibility in northern Delaware. I'm a member of a local running club that has a newsletter. Here is the link to my brief summary:"
http://creekroadrunners.org/2012/05/07/hiking-and/
Also of note, Paul Scearce completed the course on a fixed gear -- his goal is do the complete Easter PA SR series on a fixed gear (which would be a first), and he's well on his way. Paul writes: "...Thanks for putting on a lovely ride yesterday. You asked me at the end of the ride which hill was the worst on the fixed gear, but I can't think of one that was really terrible. The long climbs weren't too steep, and the steep ones weren't too long. I think your note at 65.3 sums it up: "You could have gotten Fox Gap". I could tell a lot of preparation and effort went into the ride and that is very appreciated. ..."
First finisher Gavin Biebuyck made it around the 300k course in 12:48 -- over a half hour faster than the 200k time limit! Gavin has also recently notched a first finish and new course record for the Crush the Commonwealth event:
http://randanneuring.blogspot.com/2012/04/crush-commonwealth-2012.html
Geoff Brunner and George Metzler rolled in shortly afterwards. George writes: "....Beautiful Spring ride yesterday. We weren't the only people riding yesterday....saw many birders, boaters and fisherman out enjoying the day.... riding the Mine road climb in reverse was a welcome change, yes the descent is a little hairy but I enjoyed the change....Just how big is Still Water Lake? Seemed like I was riding around for hours....I was thinking "still water" maybe some flat riding. The water may be still...but geez only because it was locked in by the cliffs around it.! No complaints whatsoever about riding past the right turn onto Buckwampon rd as we ascended Gallows! Did anyone see Bill Olsen? I think a tall skinny guy stole his bike and was riding it in the 300k. I don't think that bike ever rode uphill that fast....Excellent ride, thoroughly enjoyed the company and special thanks to Geoff Brunner for bailing me out with "Fizz" by Hammer products for the cramping that hit me on the climb out of Reigelsville. ..."
George and Geoff are both headed to RAAM this year. George will be participating in a 4-man team RAW race. Geoff will be riding his second RAM solo race. Since Geoff rode to and from the 300k start, he actually had a 400k day. In order to finish RAM within the time limit, he'll have to string about ten 400k-days in a row. And for a podium finish, he'll have to up that a notch to 500k each day. Geoff is still looking for another person for his crew, and a randonneur would be a great addition -- contact me if you'd like to take advantage of this once-in-a-life-time opportunity to see RAAM up close.
Don Jagel also managed to squeak under the 200k time limit while riding the 300k. Don writes: "...Thanks for putting together another great 300k. Starting with the morning breakfast spread before the ride, through the bakery with too many selections at Water Gap, a really satisfying lunch at Hainesville, and then ending with your famous lasagna made for a fulfilling day. Rick C. and I had an enjoyable ride and conversation together up to Water Gap, hitting a thick fog bank after the decent down Blue Mountain. From Water Gap, I rode the remainder alone, passing many birdwatchers through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, suffering up the Route 206 climb through Culvers Gap (my low point), and then enjoying the smooth pavement of Route 521 before the very familiar return to the Hostel. I did run into Bill O. and Bill F. at the control in Bloomsbury who were taking a few minutes to get psyched for the last little leg back to the Hostel. I appreciate your checking out the course in the bad weather conditions so we could all enjoy the ride in the best of weather conditions. As always, your attention to detail and the amount of time and effort you put into organizing the brevet make it hard to have a less than a stellar ride (barring mechanicals, bonking, etc.). Also a large Thanks to Chris for manning the final control. It is always good to see a familiar smiling face at the end of a long day ..."
Bill Olsen writes: "...Thanks for offering such a great ride yesterday. Those that I was riding with all agreed that the 4AM start was just the thing to make it a perfect ride. Not only did it help to minimize the amount of traffic we had at the New Street bridge it also meant that there was less traffic on Rt. 378. I don't know how you did it but the overcast day never resulted in any major showers and had the sun stayed out much more than it did, we'd have had a hot one. The changes to the route coming up the Delaware and over Mine Road, as well as the return trip from Hainesville were also quite nice. I was enjoying the new section of 521 but wasn't quite sure where I was (other than enjoying the beauty of Sussex County) until we took the sharp RHT at the bottom of the hill on 626 and I realized we were on the familiar Stillwater 200K routing. Even the climb up Lehrenburg didn't seem so bad in the daylight! ..."
Nigel Greene writes: "...Thanks again for putting together another well run brevet. From route selection and pre and post ride feedings, to the accuracy of the cue sheet, every detail was covered...."
You can read Nigel's poetic ride report here:
http://eprider.blogspot.com/2012/05/treat-yourself-to-best-pa-randonneurs.html#more
And once again, Nigel has taken a bunch of really nice pictures, posted here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/sets/72157629977827791/
In particular, this one:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/7148218327/sizes/l/in/set-72157629977827791/
... really caught my eye. With the early morning shadows, rustic terrain, and two riders sharing a quiet meandering road, it really captures the essence of of randonneuring.
Christine Newman writes: "...Thanks for a great ride. Beautiful route - especially with Hunter Road replacing Buttwhumpin! And thanks for guaranteeing the perfect weather with your pre-ride soaking.
Thanks as well to Chris Nadovich for staffing the finish controle...." [BTW, You can thank Don Jagel for pointing out the better option to Buck Wampum Rd - Tom R.]
Christine also gotten an number of interesting pictures in her photo album posted here:
https://picasaweb.google.com/canewmandvm/PA300K2012?authkey=Gv1sRgCInyiIC1pd-rngE
Mordecai Silver writes: "...It was a wonderfully scenic route. Your cue sheet was so clear that I didn't need to think about navigation. It's been a number of years since I last was on Old Mine Rd on one of your brevets, and I think I enjoyed it more this way, going north, despite the rough descent (which wasn't so bad, in my opinion). I really enjoyed the 10-mile section from Lehnenberg Rd up to Rte 563. I can imagine the enormous amount of painstaking work that went into planning this brevet -- oh, and excellent lasagna too. Many thanks. ..."
Special thanks to volunteer Chris Nadovich, who manned the finish controle all day. Chris has a photo album of the finishers here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/79627894@N04/sets/72157629613705848/
And speaking of volunteers, I'm still looking for help on the following events:
400k (May 19)
600k (June 2)
1000k (August 17)
Volunteers may pre-ride an event up to 15 days in advance. However, a volunteer preride is primarily for volunteers who will be working the event (or perhaps another event in the future). I've had a number of inquires lately about doing a preride due to a scheduling conflict, However, the guidelines from RUSA-HQ state: "...A volunteers’ pre-ride is a favor to the volunteers who will put on a ride. It's not supposed to be a burden on you. A volunteers’ pre-ride is also not supposed to be a scheduling alternative. While the volunteers’ pre-ride is for the volunteers who will be working on the main event day, this is not an absolute rule and non-volunteer riders along provide an extra set of eyes on the cue sheet and company for the ride. Any such rider is probably a long-standing volunteer who helps out on lots of other club activities and rides. ..."
Please drop me a note if you can take your turn to step up to help out.
If you have any other comments or photos to share, you can forward them to me or post them on the message board.
Next up, is the Blue Mountain 400k. Event details have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA400K.html
Eastern PA members can register via e-mail (and get a $5 member discount and early registration discount extended to the Thursday before the event).
Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA300k_Results120505.pdf
... please let me know of any corrections or other issues. Results will be submitted to RUSA shortly, and become final, pending RUSA/ACP approval.
The weather pattern for the past week had befuddled the forecasters, and Saturday was no exception to this trend. The early morning showers in the forecast never materialized, and the mostly sunny forecast yielded to a day that was mostly overcast. And seemingly out of nowhere, an isolated downpour in Rieglesville drenched the final finisher. But there could hardly be any complaints about the nearly ideal weather for a full day in the saddle: temperatures at the start were around 60F, and topped out in the mid 70F's.
There were 30 starters for the 300k and 28 finishers; all 3 starters for the 200k finished. Dan Aaron experienced a perplexing mechanical issue with his chain, which kept falling off. Fellow randonneurs Paul Searce and Mordecai Silver both stopped to lend a hand, but could find no obvious problems. So sadly, Dan and his riding partner Susan brevet was done. Dan sent me this follow-up note: "...Thanks for your help yesterday. Thanks also to Mordecai and Paul for helping me out on the road. Turned out that meeting you at the next Controle, then getting back via the 200K route really wasn't practical as my chain was dropping every two minutes. It would have taken us hours just to cover the remaining 15 miles to the next Controle. After I spoke with you on the phone, I found a bike shop one block away. It was a relatively low end shop primarily handling mountain bikes. There were a couple of road bikes in the shop, and had I thought of it sooner I could have rented one of the road bikes and still finished the ride on time.The owner/mechanic couldn't fix my de-chaining problem but suspected it was due to a worn chain ring. I dropped the bike off at my local LBS this morning. The mechanic confirmed that my chain ring was worn and that the worn ring was probably causing my de-chaining problem. Susan and I called a taxi to transport us back to Quakertown. The dispatcher said that the fare would be about $130, and he would not be able to fit the bikes in the cab. This meant that I would have to take the taxi to Quakertown and then drive back in my car to pick up Susan and the bikes. As luck would have it, we ran into a group of cyclists on a local club ride. Several of them offered to drive us and our bikes back to the hostel. Needles to say, we cancelled the taxi. Cyclists always seem to have that "pay it forward" attitude toward other cyclists...."
Fred Collins, Michelle Hughes, Chris Knight, Gary Mass, David Pawlyk, and Chris Roth completed their first 300k. Of note, Michelle, was on her second brevet ever as well, having just recently finished the NJ200k. I wonder if her next two rides will be a 400k and 600k? Congratulations to each of them for reaching this milestone. Chris Knight writes: "...AWESOME AGAIN TOM. You and your group amaze me. The whole club amazes me. I thought I'd try to give PA-Randonneurs a little visibility in northern Delaware. I'm a member of a local running club that has a newsletter. Here is the link to my brief summary:"
http://creekroadrunners.org/2012/05/07/hiking-and/
Also of note, Paul Scearce completed the course on a fixed gear -- his goal is do the complete Easter PA SR series on a fixed gear (which would be a first), and he's well on his way. Paul writes: "...Thanks for putting on a lovely ride yesterday. You asked me at the end of the ride which hill was the worst on the fixed gear, but I can't think of one that was really terrible. The long climbs weren't too steep, and the steep ones weren't too long. I think your note at 65.3 sums it up: "You could have gotten Fox Gap". I could tell a lot of preparation and effort went into the ride and that is very appreciated. ..."
First finisher Gavin Biebuyck made it around the 300k course in 12:48 -- over a half hour faster than the 200k time limit! Gavin has also recently notched a first finish and new course record for the Crush the Commonwealth event:
http://randanneuring.blogspot.com/2012/04/crush-commonwealth-2012.html
Geoff Brunner and George Metzler rolled in shortly afterwards. George writes: "....Beautiful Spring ride yesterday. We weren't the only people riding yesterday....saw many birders, boaters and fisherman out enjoying the day.... riding the Mine road climb in reverse was a welcome change, yes the descent is a little hairy but I enjoyed the change....Just how big is Still Water Lake? Seemed like I was riding around for hours....I was thinking "still water" maybe some flat riding. The water may be still...but geez only because it was locked in by the cliffs around it.! No complaints whatsoever about riding past the right turn onto Buckwampon rd as we ascended Gallows! Did anyone see Bill Olsen? I think a tall skinny guy stole his bike and was riding it in the 300k. I don't think that bike ever rode uphill that fast....Excellent ride, thoroughly enjoyed the company and special thanks to Geoff Brunner for bailing me out with "Fizz" by Hammer products for the cramping that hit me on the climb out of Reigelsville. ..."
George and Geoff are both headed to RAAM this year. George will be participating in a 4-man team RAW race. Geoff will be riding his second RAM solo race. Since Geoff rode to and from the 300k start, he actually had a 400k day. In order to finish RAM within the time limit, he'll have to string about ten 400k-days in a row. And for a podium finish, he'll have to up that a notch to 500k each day. Geoff is still looking for another person for his crew, and a randonneur would be a great addition -- contact me if you'd like to take advantage of this once-in-a-life-time opportunity to see RAAM up close.
Don Jagel also managed to squeak under the 200k time limit while riding the 300k. Don writes: "...Thanks for putting together another great 300k. Starting with the morning breakfast spread before the ride, through the bakery with too many selections at Water Gap, a really satisfying lunch at Hainesville, and then ending with your famous lasagna made for a fulfilling day. Rick C. and I had an enjoyable ride and conversation together up to Water Gap, hitting a thick fog bank after the decent down Blue Mountain. From Water Gap, I rode the remainder alone, passing many birdwatchers through the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, suffering up the Route 206 climb through Culvers Gap (my low point), and then enjoying the smooth pavement of Route 521 before the very familiar return to the Hostel. I did run into Bill O. and Bill F. at the control in Bloomsbury who were taking a few minutes to get psyched for the last little leg back to the Hostel. I appreciate your checking out the course in the bad weather conditions so we could all enjoy the ride in the best of weather conditions. As always, your attention to detail and the amount of time and effort you put into organizing the brevet make it hard to have a less than a stellar ride (barring mechanicals, bonking, etc.). Also a large Thanks to Chris for manning the final control. It is always good to see a familiar smiling face at the end of a long day ..."
Bill Olsen writes: "...Thanks for offering such a great ride yesterday. Those that I was riding with all agreed that the 4AM start was just the thing to make it a perfect ride. Not only did it help to minimize the amount of traffic we had at the New Street bridge it also meant that there was less traffic on Rt. 378. I don't know how you did it but the overcast day never resulted in any major showers and had the sun stayed out much more than it did, we'd have had a hot one. The changes to the route coming up the Delaware and over Mine Road, as well as the return trip from Hainesville were also quite nice. I was enjoying the new section of 521 but wasn't quite sure where I was (other than enjoying the beauty of Sussex County) until we took the sharp RHT at the bottom of the hill on 626 and I realized we were on the familiar Stillwater 200K routing. Even the climb up Lehrenburg didn't seem so bad in the daylight! ..."
Nigel Greene writes: "...Thanks again for putting together another well run brevet. From route selection and pre and post ride feedings, to the accuracy of the cue sheet, every detail was covered...."
You can read Nigel's poetic ride report here:
http://eprider.blogspot.com/2012/05/treat-yourself-to-best-pa-randonneurs.html#more
And once again, Nigel has taken a bunch of really nice pictures, posted here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/sets/72157629977827791/
In particular, this one:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58781331@N07/7148218327/sizes/l/in/set-72157629977827791/
... really caught my eye. With the early morning shadows, rustic terrain, and two riders sharing a quiet meandering road, it really captures the essence of of randonneuring.
Christine Newman writes: "...Thanks for a great ride. Beautiful route - especially with Hunter Road replacing Buttwhumpin! And thanks for guaranteeing the perfect weather with your pre-ride soaking.
Thanks as well to Chris Nadovich for staffing the finish controle...." [BTW, You can thank Don Jagel for pointing out the better option to Buck Wampum Rd - Tom R.]
Christine also gotten an number of interesting pictures in her photo album posted here:
https://picasaweb.google.com/canewmandvm/PA300K2012?authkey=Gv1sRgCInyiIC1pd-rngE
Mordecai Silver writes: "...It was a wonderfully scenic route. Your cue sheet was so clear that I didn't need to think about navigation. It's been a number of years since I last was on Old Mine Rd on one of your brevets, and I think I enjoyed it more this way, going north, despite the rough descent (which wasn't so bad, in my opinion). I really enjoyed the 10-mile section from Lehnenberg Rd up to Rte 563. I can imagine the enormous amount of painstaking work that went into planning this brevet -- oh, and excellent lasagna too. Many thanks. ..."
Special thanks to volunteer Chris Nadovich, who manned the finish controle all day. Chris has a photo album of the finishers here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/79627894@N04/sets/72157629613705848/
And speaking of volunteers, I'm still looking for help on the following events:
400k (May 19)
600k (June 2)
1000k (August 17)
Volunteers may pre-ride an event up to 15 days in advance. However, a volunteer preride is primarily for volunteers who will be working the event (or perhaps another event in the future). I've had a number of inquires lately about doing a preride due to a scheduling conflict, However, the guidelines from RUSA-HQ state: "...A volunteers’ pre-ride is a favor to the volunteers who will put on a ride. It's not supposed to be a burden on you. A volunteers’ pre-ride is also not supposed to be a scheduling alternative. While the volunteers’ pre-ride is for the volunteers who will be working on the main event day, this is not an absolute rule and non-volunteer riders along provide an extra set of eyes on the cue sheet and company for the ride. Any such rider is probably a long-standing volunteer who helps out on lots of other club activities and rides. ..."
Please drop me a note if you can take your turn to step up to help out.
If you have any other comments or photos to share, you can forward them to me or post them on the message board.
Next up, is the Blue Mountain 400k. Event details have been posted at:
http://users.rcn.com/trosenbauer/PA400K.html
Eastern PA members can register via e-mail (and get a $5 member discount and early registration discount extended to the Thursday before the event).
Tom Rosenbauer
Eastern PA RBA
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